Edward Alden and James Ziglar argue that fixing the U.S. immigration system requires reforming the laws on legal immigration rather than just the enforcement components. A realistic, flexible visa program that matched available workers to open jobs would reduce pressure on limited enforcement resources.

This year's Nobelists demonstrate the United States' success in science. But Edward Alden argues that we are jeopardizing this success through shortsighted immigration restrictions that make it difficult for the most talented and ambitious scientists to come here and remain.

"The war on terror has come home to America. But when did the war on terror morph into a war on illegal immigration? Today it is much harder for a terrorist to enter the United States than it used to be, but according to Edward Alden, it's also much harder for everyone else."

In this Forbes.com op-ed, Edward Alden writes that there were many good reasons to strengthen U.S. border security after 9/11. However, maintaining this country's strength requires the relentless innovation that stems from keeping an open door to the most talented and ambitious people the world has to offer.